Hi All! Purchased a Certified Pre-Owned 2008 Volvo XC90 less than a month ago. Tried dialing in to one of the local AM stations and found it cutting and/or fading out. It's definitely not a reception problem, however I think there are some antenna issues in play. Can anyone advise how to check the connections and the antenna? Where would I look? Thanks for your advice!

 

I suggest checking the driver's manual. Then if that doesn't help, try opening the dashboard.

 

Usually AM antennas are built into the unit I believe. As far as I know the one that connects to the unit and runs to the windshield antenna is FM only.

 

Just took my 2008 to the dealer for the same problem. They had to order some part for it. Seems to be a common problem.

 

Do you know if the part was in the radio or an external part? Did they give you a part #?

 

It is the CD player that fails everybody, a module that needs software.

Depending if you have 6-disc, premium, high-performance, etc. is what part number it will be.

 

I'll let you know on Saturday. I'm taking it back to have the new part installed. I'll also check my previous invoice at home and see if it has a part number/name.

-Craig

 

I has similar AM reception issues in my 2008 XC70.
After replacing the antenna amplifier and not fixing the issue, I happened to mention it to the dealer and they said that it was a known issue with the "ladder networks" in the IAM, which is the AM module for the radio. They got Volvo to replace the part for free (a >$600 part) and only charged me the labor for installation (I was out of warranty/mileage). It now works like new.
BTW, I had poor AM reception in my former XC70. You'd think that Volvo would change suppliers knowing that the AM radios have a history of failing.

 

We're having similar issues on AM reception only. We have park assist, which disables AM radio sound when the trans is in R (so you can hear the beeping through the speakers) but all of a sudden when I shifted into Drive, the AM reception was gone. Sounds like an antenna issue to me but I can't locate the AM antenna. FM works just fine! I'm curious to know more about this "ladder networks and the IAM." Sounds like a common Volvo issue, as mentioned, so one would think that Volvo would make it right! Any comments would be appreciated.

2007 VOLVO XC70 with 50,000 miles
San Clemente, CA.

 

I just bought a used '08 V70; haven't had it a week yet and just found out the AM radio doesn't work at all. I mean nothing: no hiss, no static, nothing!
I also didn't get a second key; wonder what that's going to cost? The car has 31,800 miles so I probably don't have a warranty claim but I'll check with a Volvo dealer soon.

 

This reminds me that I need to see what part was used to fix my AM. I think they ended up replacing the entire radio. I'll check my receipts at home.

Our '08 XC didn't come with a second key either. $500 for the full remote, $300 for a 'dumb' version.

-Craig

 

I wrote to Volvo about my radio and here is their reply:
Thank you for contacting Volvo Cars of North America.

There is no recall on the radio. The vehicle would need to be inspected
at a retailer for repair needs and warranty coverage.

There is a recall for the coolant bleeder hose, recall 232. You may want to make an appointment at M*****l Volvo to have the radio inspected and the recall completed

I haven't taken it in yet but will do so.

5/1/2013 My dealer fixed the AM radio but I don't remember now how he did it. No charge.

 

I have the same problem with my 2008 XC90. AM radion reception began to become scratchy and then progressively got worse over about six months, then nothing at all. FM is fine. I read about a 'brass strip' part on another thread, does anyone know if that fix which I believe was for S70's would also apply to XC90s ? They refered to a Tech note reference 39-35. Please help ?